Key responsibilities

The Client:

The client’s duty is to ensure the principal designer (or nominated specialist provider) prepares the H&S File on a project and is reviewed and updated as the project progresses. At project completion, the client must retain the file and ensure it is made readily available for anyone who may need it. If the building is sold, the client must handover the file to the individual or company that takes on the client duties.

Principle Designer:

The principle designer is responsible for preparing the Health & Safety file on behalf of the client or where an external consultant is appointed, providing final sign-off of the completed file. The principle designer will liaise with the client and agree the content and structure of the file at the project outset. At project completion, the principle designer must present the updated file to the client.

Principal Contractor:

The principal contractor plays a secondary role in ensuring the H&S File is fit for purpose. They must supply the principal designer (or appointed specialist provider) with any information deemed necessary for inclusion in the file. If the principle designer’s appointment finishes before the end of the project, the contractor must deliver the file along with any other documents stipulated in the EIRs, directly to the client at project completion.

What information is required in an H&S File?

The scope, structure and format of the file should be agreed between the client and the principal designer at the start of the project.

Information about structures or parts of structures that have been demolished unless there are any implications for remaining or future structures like voids

Information contained in other documents, although relevant cross references should be included

At project handover

The updated Health & Safety File must be presented to the client at the end of the project. It is important the client understands the structure and content of the file and its significance for any future project.

The client has a duty to retain the Health & Safety file and make it available to anyone who may need it for as long as it remains relevant. If the building is sold it should be passed on to the new owners and updated for any future works.

Format for handover

The file should be kept as a live document, typically over the course of a building’s life. Because this will likely be decades, we recommend hosting electronically in the cloud. This prevents the typical problems associated with paper copies such as loss or damage, whilst ensuring the file is easily updated and accessible.

Get In Touch

Give us a call, drop us an email or request a call back for more information. Tel: +44 020 3668 2000
Email: info@createmaster.co.uk